About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is beginning to ask difficult questions about family history, navigating the silence that often follows a major loss, or encountering relatives who process the world differently. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers who are maturing beyond simple narratives and are ready to explore how adults sometimes hide truths to protect children, even when that protection feels like a barrier. Set in post-World War II Georgia, the story follows fourteen-year-old Afton as she balances her own grief over her brother's death with the sudden arrival of an eccentric, secretive uncle named Bailey. The book explores heavy themes of mourning, mental health, and the complexity of family loyalty with a steady, empathetic hand. It is developmentally perfect for ages 10 to 14, offering a safe space to discuss how secrets impact relationships and how understanding the past can help a family heal.
